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Pneumococcal Disease
(Includes pneumococcal pneumonia, pneumococcal meningitis and pneumococcal
bacteremia)
What is pneumococcal disease?
Pneumococcal disease is a severe bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus
pneumoniae also called pneumococcus. It may cause pneumonia, meningitis
or a blood stream infection (bacteremia).
Who gets pneumococcal disease?
Although anyone can get pneumococcal disease, it tends to occur in the
elderly or in people with serious underlying medical conditions such as
chronic lung, heart or kidney disease. Others at risk include alcoholics,
diabetics, people with weakened immune systems and those without a spleen.
vHow is the disease transmitted?
The pneumococcus is spread by airborne or direct exposure to respiratory
droplets from a person who is infected or carrying the bacteria?
When does pneumococcal disease occur?
Infections occur most often during the winter and early spring and less
frequently during the summer.
How soon after exposure do symptoms occur?
The incubation period may vary but it is generally one to three days.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms may include fever, chills, headache, cough, chest pain, disorientation,
shortness of breath and occasionally stiff neck.
How is pneumococcal disease diagnosed?
Doctors are able to diagnose pneumococcal disease based on the type
of symptoms exhibited by the patient and specific laboratory cultures
of sputum, blood or spinal fluid.
How is it treated?
Prompt treatment with antibiotics, such as penicillin or cephalosporin,
is usually effective. However, penicillin-resistant strains of pneumococcus
have occasionally been reported. They may require the use of other antibiotics
such as vancomycin.
Is there a vaccine to prevent infection?
Yes. A reasonably effective vaccine has been available for a number
of years. Although it is safe and inexpensive, it is underutilized. Patients
in high-risk categories should ask their health care provider or local
health department about pneumococcal vaccine.
Source: NY State Department of Health
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